Stretch out on sugar-white sands lapped by turquoise waters on Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island. Then let sumptuous therapies relax you into a state of absolute bliss at an opulent hotel spa. Stroll under a canopy of lush palm fronds in the Al Ain Oasis and take in the myriad colours and fragrances of the Al Ain Paradise Garden. Or gaze at the shimmering white domes and gold-gilded chandeliers of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. If you crave exhilaration, feel the G-force on the Formula Rossa roller coaster at Ferrari World. Or go whizzing down the 238m-long tornado slide at Yas Waterworld. Complete your day dining on lavish international fare at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Or feast on exotic spice-infused Emirati cuisine at a desert camp under the stars.

Abu Dhabi by area

Get a new experience in each of Abu Dhabi’s different areas

Corniche

Stroll or cycle along the Corniche promenade, lined with shimmering skyscrapers on one side and a sparkling expanse of turquoise sea on the other. Stop for refreshments at one of the many eateries to be found along this manicured water front, or for little ones to let loose at the children’s play areas. The Blue Flag-awarded Corniche Beach is also perfect for fun or relaxation on family holidays. Choose from an array of luxury hotels including the spectacular Emirates Palace.

Saadiyat Island

Not yet complete and already boasting the wow factor with its stunning beach, Saadiyat Island offers a peaceful oasis away from the bustle of the city centre. Unwind on pristine white sands and cool off in crystalline waters. Catch a glimpse of playful dolphins, and maybe even a nesting turtle after nightfall. Take in captivating ocean vistas from the emerald green course at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. Experience the luxury of the St Regis Saadiyat Island hotel or Park Hyatt.

Yas Island

Yas Island is Abu Dhabi’s hub of entertainment and sport. For motor racing enthusiasts, a visit to the Formula 1 circuit at Yas Marina is a must. Experience the thrill of riding the world’s fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Or go zipping down the 238m-long water slide at Yas Waterworld. Alternatively, slow down the pace at Yas Gateway Park or with a relaxing round of golf at the internationally renowned Yas Links course.

Liwa Desert

No holiday to Abu Dhabi would be complete without taking in the Liwa Desert. Escape the urban hustle and bustle for this sandy oasis of spectacular rolling dunes in varying shades of gold and crimson. Explore this vast expanse on an exhilarating camel trek, or discover the thrill of racing across the sands by buggy, otherwise known as ‘dune bashing’. Complete this unforgettable experience with a stay at the stunning, 5 star Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.

Al Ain

Find respite from the heat and pace of the city at the Al Ain Oasis. A centuries-old underground irrigation system has earned this 3,000-acre gem the badge of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll along the palm-shaded pathways and breathe in the sweet fragrance of the stunning blooms at Al Ain Paradise Garden. Then browse the fascinating collection of ancient artefacts and discover the history of Abu Dhabi at Al Ain National Museum.